Posted on 46,673 Comments on Access to Healthcare for Immigrants

Access to Healthcare for Immigrants

Access to healthcare can be determined by several factors (i.e. geographical location, income, insurance)–being an immigrant, especially a recent immigrant to the U.S., is one of these factors. In Albany, NY, the immigrant population has grown over the past few years and currently, 13.2% of the population consists of individuals that were not born in the U.S. (1). Coming to a new country presents many unique challenges, but access to healthcare is one that can prevent individuals from adjusting well and living a safe and healthy lifestyle.

Health Insurance

Due to their lack of citizenship after first moving to the U.S., health insurance options can be limited for immigrants, especially for undocumented immigrants (2). This limits access to many providers who only accept patients with insurance, and while undocumented immigrants can sometimes receive care from community health centers, this care is often only basic primary care or to be used in emergencies (2).

In New York state, all children can receive the Child Health Plus plan, regardless of their immigration status. This plan is comprehensive and includes preventative care, well-child visits, and emergency services (3). Additionally, pregnant women can receive Medicaid regardless of immigration status and some documented immigrants may qualify for the Essential Plan soon after they move to NY (2). However, if an individual does not fit into these categories, the only services that an undocumented immigrant may receive are emergency services (2). While this is beneficial, it leaves out the preventative care and services that can treat symptoms before they worsen beyond control.

Translation Services & Health Literacy

Many immigrant families, especially when they first immigrate to the U.S., are considered to have low English proficiency (LEP). This makes communication in healthcare settings a challenge and can be a barrier to receiving quality care, as the patient and provider cannot have a direct, fluid conversation. Some health care settings in New York have put up this ‘Language Identification Tool Poster’ that allows patients to point to their language, so that appropriate translation services may be provided.  A portion of the poster is shown below, with a link to the full poster here:

While resources such as this poster can help, patients and providers would still not be able to speak directly to each other, and would only be able to communicate through a translator.

Additionally, understanding health insurance options can also be difficult when there is a language barrier, as there are different requirements for each plan. A search engine can be found here for in-person help. This search engine consists of a directory of in-person helpers that can assist individuals in navigating the health system and health insurance plans specifically. While only eight languages are supported, including English, this service can benefit some individuals in understanding how to receive health services for themselves and their families.

COVID-19

With the current pandemic, language barriers present a unique challenge in being able to transmit public health information clearly to the general population. As immigrants make up a large portion of the population, it is essential that they understand basic information about the virus and are able to practice appropriate measures to limit the spread of the virus. Valleywise Health Medical Center in Arizona has made a series of videos available on Youtube that describe what COVID-19 is and what to do if you are sick. These videos have been made available in 12 languages, one of which can be played below.

These videos can be incredibly helpful for individuals that may not understand what is happening in their local communities as a result the virus, but coming across these videos may not be common for many immigrants, as they require some searching. It would therefore be helpful for similar resources and information to be sent to or made available to local communities, either in the style of videos or in pamphlet form.

While many resources exist to help immigrants navigate the healthcare system and obtain information about resources, these resources are not always used or made readily available to immigrant families. Many require searching and prior knowledge about websites and organizations that usually provide public health, insurance, and language services. In the future, it would be important to ensure that immigrants are aware of the resources that exist so that they can have access to the healthcare that they might need. What are some ways this could be done?

46,673 thoughts on “Access to Healthcare for Immigrants”

  8. This is so awesome! I want more people to know the excellence of your writing. It’s really new and innovative content. Your view is similar to mine on this topic. I think my writing will help you, too. https://rbrdbdvivi.com/

    Reply

  10. I saw a very interesting post. It was a fresh content. I became curious about the secret to thinking about special things. I want you to teach me when you come next time.토토사이트추천

    Reply

  11. In Islamabad, There Are Several Escort Services Available. These Escorts Can Offer A Variety Of Services, Including Companionship And Sex. In Islamabad, escorts are frequently offered for hourly rates or longer overnight engagements.Islamabad escorts are skilled professionals and Escorts in Islamabad are sexy girls provides unlimited pleasure. Contact Us on 03001101158

    Reply

  12. I came to this site with the introduction of a friend around me and I was very impressed when I found your writing. I’ll come back often after bookmarking! baccaratsite

    Reply

  13. As much as your thinking is appreciated, it is very important to have a beautiful mind to write a beautiful post and in fact, you have rarely seen such a beautiful post as the beautiful post you have written, it is very much in my life Beautiful post.There are many posts that mean anything which is meaningless, but your post is very different, it is very amazing and is very unmatchable, I enjoyed reading it very much.

    Reply

  14. The Best Restaurant in Karachi is Online Dhaba. Culinary treats are now easily ordered online, regardless of whether you live in Karachi or are just visiting the city. Fast Food In Karachi

    Reply

  15. Nice information, valuable and excellent design, as share good stuff with good ideas and concepts, lots of great information and inspiration, both of which I need, thanks to offer such a helpful information here. Polyester zwembad

    Reply

  17. Wow! Such an amazing and helpful post this is. I really really love it. It’s so good and so awesome. I am just amazed. I hope that you continue to do your work like this in the future also. Erotische massage Limburg

    Reply

  21. I am very enjoyed for this blog. Its an informative topic. It help me very much to solve some problems. Its opportunity are so fantastic and working style so speedy. Erotische massage

    Reply

  23. Nice information, valuable and excellent design, as share good stuff with good ideas and concepts, lots of great information and inspiration, both of which I need, thanks to offer such a helpful information here. Erotisch massagesalon

    Reply

  24. I just couldn’t leave your website before telling you that I truly enjoyed the top quality info you present to your visitors? Will be back again frequently to check up on new posts. Budget zwembad

    Reply

  25. I was surfing net and fortunately came across this site and found very interesting stuff here. Its really fun to read. I enjoyed a lot. Thanks for sharing this wonderful information. Erotische massages

    Reply

  28. Such a very useful article. Very interesting to read this article. I would like to thank you for the efforts you had made for writing this awesome article.
    Basalt Fiber Suppliers

    Reply

  30. Sarkari Result
    is a job Portal which have updated details of all Latest Sarkari Results, sarkari exam, sarkari job, sarkari naukri, sarkari rojgar, rojgar result, Sarkari Result Scholarship, Admit Card, Latest Jobs, Govt Jobs in various sectors of Central and State Govt Jobs.

    Reply

  31. I must admit that I’m impressed. It’s quite uncommon for me to find a site that’s both educational and interesting, but let me tell you, you’ve hit the mark. Your blog is crucial.
    Commercial Metal Roofing

    Reply

  33. Here is some news that I want to share with the travelers who want to visit Tanzania visa. The Tanzanian eVisa is an electronic visa that allows travelers to apply for a visa to enter Tanzania without having to visit a Tanzanian embassy or consulate. This type of visa is obtained online through an online application process. To apply for a Tanzania eVisa, you will need to provide your personal information, passport details and pay a processing fee. The visa will be issued electronically, and you will receive it via email.

    Reply

  35. It’s such a good site for me. I came to visit during a difficult time, and it was a deep comfort to me. I will be very grateful and visit again to get consolation.안전놀이터추천

    Reply

  36. very interesting post.this is my first time visit here.i found so mmany interesting stuff in your blog especially its discussion..thanks for the post! psychic near me

    Reply

  39. London escort experience? Look no further! Babesoflondon is the premier agency for london escorts, committed to providing clients with gorgeous companions and unforgettable experiences. Our stunning London escorts are ready to make your fantasies come true and give you an experience you’ll never forget. With genuine photos and a commitment to excellence, Babesoflondon is the perfect choice for all of your escort needs.
    https://www.babesoflondon.com/

    Reply

  43. I haven’t any word to appreciate this post…..Really i am impressed from this post….the person who create this post it was a great human..thanks for shared this with us. Canada Cloud Pharmacy

    Reply

  44. It is imperative that packing should be done carefully and correctly to avoid damages. Undoubtedly, the process of packing goods is a big task but it can be made easier and simpler by learning some helpful packing tips. Here are some great tips which will make you tackle in packing of goods comfortably. And you will enjoy the work. Packers and Movers Nagpur to Coimbatore

    Reply

  45. These counseling worldwide or overseas shifting services try to assuage your fears by getting rid of the strain and letting you think rationally for a while. This generally is a very relieving experience. Others might also share recommendation and give you tips about how to cope with the experience of shifting to another country. Packers and Movers Nagpur to Varanasi

    Reply

  48. Pakistan Call girls are different from female escorts karachi. Just share what you want with them and They will serve you with unique and unforgettable happiness without compromise. So don’t worry if you are a beginner, and our young girls will command you in Karachi.

    Reply

  49. If you have been confused by all the technical jargon surrounding car engines, then here’s a blog post for you! We will be discussing the concept of a non-interference engine, its advantages and disadvantages, and how it works. So stay tuned to learn more about this important component of your automobile. For more about what is a non interference engine

    Reply

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *